Heights Youth Theatre presents 'Chicago'

by Mary Patton

The cast of HYT's "Chicago" rehearses for their May performances.

Prohibition-era Chicago was overrun by murder, greed, corruption, violence, exploitation, adultery and treachery. "Chicago," the dark musical, tells the tale of two of the merry murderesses in the Cook County Jail—Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly. Set in a 1920s speakeasy, John Kander and Fred Ebb’s well-known score gives us Broadway jazz standards, such as "All That Jazz," "Razzle Dazzle" and "Cell Block Tango."

Heights Youth Theatre presents "Chicago" like you’ve never seen it before. This production will be true to the period of the Roaring 20s, highlighting the satiric nature of the original libretto, and promising a good time for all who catch the show.

"Chicago" will be presented May 11, 12, 17, 18 and 19 at 7 p.m. at Wiley Middle School, 2181 Miramar Blvd., in University Heights.

Tickets are $10 general admission, cash or checks only. The box office opens 45 minutes before each show.

On Sunday, May 20, at 7 p.m., there will be a special benefit performance of "Chicago" at Dobama Theatre, 2340 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights. Tickets are $20 and include refreshments. They can be purchased at the Dobama box office on May 20 or by calling 216-410-7500. For more information, visit www.heightsyouththeatre.org.

Mary Patton

Mary Patton, a University Heights Resident, is a public relations consultant and member of the Heights Youth Theatre Advisory Board.